This battlefield honors the Union and Confederate soldiers who fought and died in the battle that marks the turning point of the Civil War. From the Gettysburg Address to the Devil’s Den, history comes to life here.

Population: 7,500.

Average cost of meal: $10-$15.

Hotel: $130 per night.

Best time to go: In the spring when the native pink redwoods and white dogwoods are in bloom.

Off the beaten path: Take the Scenic Valley Tour, a 36-mile drive through Adams County to see the Sachs Bridge, which played a significant part in the Confederate invasion and retreat.

Main attraction: Do not miss Confederate Avenue, from which the Army of North Virginia started their charge across the fields. Also check out Emmitsburg Road toward the heights on Cemetery Ridge where the Union Army was encamped.

Mount Rushmore

Near Keystone, S.D.

This monumental granite sculpture is the gateway to the West and embodies America’s foundation, preservation and expansion with 60-foot carvings of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Lincoln in South Dakota’s Black Hills.

Population: Just more than 300 residents live in Keystone, S.D., serving the millions who visit each year.

Average cost of meal: $10 per person at Mount Rushmore or in Keystone.

Hotel: $160 per night.

Best time to go: Visit just after Labor Day (September/October) and you’ll miss the crowds.

Off the beaten path: Don’t miss the Crazy Horse monument, a striking representation of a historic American Indian figure.

Main attraction: Of course, you have to see the epic monument itself. But take a hike through Badlands National Park and check out the breathtaking buttes.

The Alamo

San Antonio

Built in 1724, the Alamo recalls the most important battle of the Texas Revolution. The building is near San Antonio’s famous Riverwalk, and “Fall at the Alamo” includes re-enactments that take visitors back to a time when Texas was an independent country.

Population: 935,933.

Average cost of meal: $15-$25.

Hotel: $150 per night.

Best time to go: Visit during the week of March 6 and be on hand to view a number of commemorative events.

Off the beaten path: Walk or drive the Mission Trail, a route that starts at the Alamo and winds nine miles along the San Antonio River, passing four historic missions.

Main attraction: The tourist heart of San Antonio emerged around the Alamo. Visit at night for a striking view of this fabulous historic treasure.